From the Guidelines
Benzodiazepines are commonly referred to as "benzos" or sedative-hypnotics. These medications include well-known drugs such as diazepam (Valium), alprazolam (Xanax), clonazepam (Klonopin), lorazepam (Ativan), and temazepam (Restoril) 1. They work by enhancing the effect of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, which produces a calming effect. Some key points to consider about benzodiazepines include:
- They are prescribed for various conditions including anxiety disorders, insomnia, seizures, muscle spasms, and alcohol withdrawal 1.
- They carry risks of dependence and withdrawal, particularly when used long-term, and are typically recommended for short-term use under medical supervision.
- Some people may also refer to these medications as tranquilizers, sedatives, or anxiolytics, though these terms can encompass other classes of medications as well. It's worth noting that benzodiazepine overdose can be managed with standard life support measures, and flumazenil, a competitive antagonist at the benzodiazepine binding site on the GABA-A receptor, can reverse CNS and respiratory depression 1. However, the use of benzodiazepines should always be carefully considered due to their potential risks and side effects.
From the FDA Drug Label
Abuse is the intentional, non-therapeutic use of a drug, even once, for its desirable psychological or physiological effects Diazepam is a benzodiazepine and a CNS depressant with a potential for abuse and addiction. Lorazepam is a benzodiazepine and a CNS depressant with a potential for abuse and addiction. Clonazepam is a benzodiazepine and a CNS depressant with a potential for abuse and addiction.
Another name for Benzodiazepines (BZDs) is CNS depressants.
- Benzodiazepines are also known as a class of drugs that have a potential for abuse and addiction 2, 3, 4.
- They are often referred to as BZDs in medical contexts.
- However, the term CNS depressants is used to describe their mechanism of action, which is to depress the central nervous system.
From the Research
Alternative Names for Benzodiazepines
- Another name for Benzodiazepines (BZDs) is not explicitly mentioned in the provided studies 5, 6, 7, 8, 9.